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Top 10 Free Thing to do on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland
- Feb 3, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 31
Top 10 Free Thing to do on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland
Stretching for more than 100 kilometres north of Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast is one of Queensland’s most rewarding regions to explore — and the best part is that many of its highlights won’t cost you a thing. From golden beaches and rainforest walks to mountain climbs, waterfalls and coastal sunsets, the Sunshine Coast is packed with unforgettable experiences that are completely free. Here’s our guide to the top 10 free things to do on the Sunshine Coast, perfect for travellers who love nature, adventure and laid-back coastal living.
Explore the Sunshine Coast Beaches
With an endless stretch of coastline, the Sunshine Coast’s beaches are an attraction in themselves. From the iconic surf breaks of Noosa Main Beach and Coolum Beach to the long sandy shoreline of Maroochydore Beach, there’s a beach for every mood. Whether you’re swimming, surfing, walking along the sand or simply relaxing with the sound of the waves, beach days here are effortlessly memorable.
Chase Hinterland Waterfalls
Head inland and you’ll find a collection of beautiful waterfalls tucked into lush rainforest. Buderim Falls, also known as Serenity Falls, is reached via a peaceful 600-metre return rainforest circuit. Near Maleny, Gardners Falls offers a popular swimming hole, while the dramatic Kondalilla Falls plunges an impressive 80 metres into the valley below.
Climb a Mountain
For one of the best free views on the coast, tackle Mount Coolum. This 1.6-kilometre return hike rewards you with sweeping panoramic views across the coastline and hinterland. If you’re feeling more adventurous, the Glass House Mountains offer a range of challenging climbs and unforgettable summit experiences.
Discover Street Art
The Sunshine Coast’s creative side shines through its street art. Wandering the Caloundra Street Art Trail reveals colourful murals that reflect the town’s coastal history and community spirit. Further inland, the historic town of Eumundi surprises visitors with sculptures, installations and vibrant murals scattered throughout the streets.
Explore Rockpools
Rockpool exploring is a simple pleasure and one of the best free activities on the coast. At Kings Beach in Caloundra, low tide reveals rockpools filled with small, colourful fish. Shelly Beach is another great spot, with striking rock formations and plenty of pools to explore at your own pace.
Take a Selfie with a Pineapple
A Sunshine Coast road trip isn’t complete without stopping at the Big Pineapple. Standing 16 metres tall, this iconic fibreglass pineapple was once Queensland’s most popular attraction and is now a quirky, nostalgic photo stop. If you enjoy big landmarks, keep an eye out for the Big Pelican near the Noosa River.
Explore Rainforests
The Sunshine Coast hinterland is perfect for free rainforest walks. The Wompoo Circuit is an easy walk beneath towering trees and through fern-filled gullies. For something longer, the 4-kilometre return walk to Baxter Falls winds through dense rainforest and crosses a suspension bridge before reaching the falls.
Discover Coastal Walks
Coastal trails offer some of the most scenic free experiences on the Sunshine Coast. The coastal walk in Noosa National Park delivers stunning ocean views and access to beautiful beaches. The Mount Coolum Boardwalk is a gentle 700-metre walk through paperbark trees and native bushland that leads to a peaceful stretch of beach.
Explore Botanic Gardens
For a slower pace, the region’s botanic gardens are a joy to explore. Noosa Botanic Gardens sits beside Lake Macdonald and features native and exotic plants, lakeside walks and a Greek-style amphitheatre. Near Buderim, the Maroochy Bushland Botanic Gardens offers walking trails, sculptures, creeks, lagoons and pockets of native bushland.
Enjoy a Sunshine Coast Sunset
There’s no better way to end the day than watching the sun dip below the horizon. Adventurous walkers can climb Mount Ngungun for sunset views over the Glass House Mountains, while those after a gentler experience can relax near Point Cartwright and watch the sky glow as the sun sets over the water.
Why the Sunshine Coast Is Perfect for Free Adventures
The Sunshine Coast proves that some of the best travel experiences don’t come with a price tag. With its mix of beaches, mountains, rainforests, waterfalls and coastal walks, this region invites you to slow down, explore and connect with nature.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, these free activities showcase exactly why the Sunshine Coast is such a special place to explore.
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